I held a poor opinion of myselfWhen young, but never bettered my opinion(Even by comparison)Of all my fellow-fools at school or college.

Passage of years induced a tolerance,Even a near-affection, for myself –Which, when you fell in love with me, amounted(Though with my tongue kept resolutely tied)To little short of pride.

Pride brought its punishment: thus to be hauntedBy my own ghost whom, much to my disquiet,All would-be friends and open enemiesBoldly identified and certifiedAs me, including him in anecdotalAutobiographies.

Love, should you meet him in the newspapersIn planes, on trains, or at large get-togethers,I charge you, disregard his foolish capers;Silence him with a cold unwinking stareWhere he sits opposite you at tableAnd let all present watch amazed, remarkingOn how little you care.

• From Robert Graves: Selected Poems edited by Michael Longley (Faber, £15.99). To order a copy for £12.79 with free UK p&p go to guardianbookshop.co.uk or call Guardian book service on 0330 333 6846.